Join Internships
SculptureCenter accepts internship applications throughout the year. Working with a small staff in an open office environment, you will gain valuable insight and hands on experience working for a non-profit art museum. Interns take on projects that have a direct and visible outcome in our exhibitions, public programs, and events. You will come away with professional skills that will help you navigate the art world. Interns work with exhibiting artists, assist with events, and enjoy free admission after their internship. Internships are unpaid. School credit may be earned. We regularly host International interns with good language skills. Scheduling is flexible with an expected commitment minimum of two days per week. We want to work with you and your schedule to build the right internship. Typical duration of an internship is 3 - 6 months.
SculptureCenter is currently seeking Spring 2012 Internship candidates for the following positions:
Media Production Intern
Works closely with the Operations Manager as well as Curatorial Associate and Associate Director to plan, shoot, edit, and upload video documentation of SculptureCenter's exhibitions and public programs. Working knowledge of Final Cut and experience operating a DV camera required.
Operations Intern
Assists the Operations Manager in fielding artist submissions, maintaining physical and digital archives, producing web content, providing day-to-day support for the museum staff, and coordinating special events. Candidates must be willing to learn new skills quickly and do not need prior museum or gallery experience but should have strong administrative and organizational skills.
How to Apply
Please send a resume and cover letter specifying your area of interest to John Emison at jobs@sculpture-center.org.
Requirements for all positions include:
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- A demonstrable knowledge of contemporary art
- Must be comfortable with Mac platforms and preferably experienced with MS Office, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and/or InDesign
-Previous gallery, non-profit, and/or museum experience is helpful though not required
Intern Testimonials
Nina Schwarz, Parsons Integrated Design Curriculum Major, Curatorial Intern, Spring 2010
"My experience at SculptureCenter was more than what the prevalent ideas about the duties and responsibilities of a curatorial intern would suggest. Learning how to compile an artist biography, doing research, email communication and organizing the shipment of the exhibition, is as important as being proactive in art conversation, lending your opinion, or just having a good chat about things that are far from art related. Even though at times the pressure was high, I was always willing to give everything, as I was always treated with respect and patience. A SculptureCenter intern learns more then hands-on know-how or intellectual exchange. Learning here is an education about the drive and the passion that can make working in the arts one of the best jobs in the world."
Kelly Chan, Vassar Art History Major, Communications Intern, Spring 2010
"Interning at SculptureCenter was a fun and invaluable experience for me. I was lucky enough to participate in one of SculptureCenter's exciting annual fundraisers and to see a show develop from an idea into a fully realized exhibition. All the things in between -the time spent mastering Photoshop, feverishly reading art magazines, researching new artists, installing new work, riding in a truck full of artwork around Chelsea, barbecuing and celebrating-will stay with me always. The staff there really took the time to put projects together for me and, more importantly, explain how my work and my input ultimately fit into the big picture. I feel privileged to have received such a meaningful and memorable look into a contemporary art institution."
Kayla Rakowski, New York University Museum Studies Major, Development Intern Summer/Fall 2009
"After working with a SculptureCenter devotee at another museum, there
was no question as to where I wanted to complete my graduate
internship requirement. SculptureCenter's building, tiny staff, and
exhibition calendar not only make it unlike any other space in New
York, but also offer a completely unique, hands-on learning experience
for an intern. From day one, I've been assigned projects that have a
real impact on the organization as a whole. And best of all, the
staff actually takes the time to answer my questions, teach me to use
new software, and seek my input and feedback. SculptureCenter has had
a tremendous impact on my professional training and where I see myself
after graduation, though I doubt anywhere else could be half as much
fun."
Anna Pugh, Wheaton College Art History major, Operations Intern Fall 2009
"Working at SculptureCenter was a great introduction to arts administration and exhibition operation. As I worked as an operations intern, I gained tremendous insight about the importance of working hard in all the different projects and assignments I was given, but in the middle of that learning how great in can be to get to know the people you are working with as you complete tasks for one another and with one another. I felt extremely welcomed, had a great time there, and truly enjoyed my experience."
Greg O'Malley, RISD Painting Major, Operations Intern Summer 2008
"Interning at SculptureCenter was one of the best experiences I've ever had. While I was there, I really felt like I got a handle on the conversation of New York's art world. I got to meet artists, critics, and curators I'd only read about before. Everyday there was a fresh conversation; I loved their willingness to work with artists on new projects rather than just rehashing shows from an art history textbook. In the end, though, the staff made the experience. Everyone had great taste, encouraged me to lend my opinion and did everything to include me as part of the team. This was my first internship, and I feel totally spoiled! I will really miss it."
Katherine Joiner, Colorado College Art History Major, Operations Intern Summer 2007
"As a SculptureCenter intern I got a hands-on introduction into arts administration from all angles. I was able to meet artists, see their studios and handle their work directly. I met like-minded people and got a taste of where my professional skills and interests lie. I also had the opportunity to hone both practical and creative skills in the office while researching artists and work of real interest to me, and helping plan and organize events. SculptureCenter staff provided me with a supportive and respectful learning environment and encouragement as I learned how to be a productive part of the process. My experience at SculptureCenter has given me greater confidence in both academic and professional environments and some great memories as well."